Consumer Sensory Panels

Consumer sensory tests are growing in prevalence in the meat science discipline with an attempt to identify and quantify constantly evolving consumer trends and niche markets. Basically, there are two types of consumer sensory tests: the acceptance test and the preference test. Data collection essentially can be categorized as questioning or observation. Both methods will allow for primary data to be collected from the consumer. A primary step in establishing a consumer sensory panel is to identify the market for the product being tested. In determining the location in which testing will take place, the researcher essentially must choose among three: in the laboratory, in a designated public venue, or in the consumers' own home. When conducting consumer sensory panels using meat products, it is critical to keep two factors under control: uniformity and safety. This edition first published 2013